CareLink-Corrections Phase 1: A Feasibility Study Inside Prisons to Improve Self-Care Upon Release

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Public Health
• Correctional Healthcare

Background:

• Self-care management (SCM) is crucial for health maintenance.
• Justice-involved populations face significant health disparities.
• There is a need for innovative healthcare programs within correctional facilities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the feasibility of implementing the CareLink-Corrections program.
• To provide nursing students with clinical experience serving justice-involved individuals.
• To evaluate the SCM competency development in participants.

Main Methods:

• A feasibility study was conducted as the first phase of program development.
• Thirty undergraduate nursing students participated.
• Forty-seven incarcerated individuals were involved in the program.

Main Results:

• The study focused on testing the implementation of the program.
• Data on feasibility and initial outcomes were collected (details to be presented).
• This article outlines the initial steps in program development.

Conclusions:

• The CareLink-Corrections program demonstrates a feasible approach to integrating SCM education within a correctional setting.
• The program offers a unique learning opportunity for nursing students.
• Further research is warranted to evaluate long-term impacts on health outcomes.